A Confused Police Officer Pulled Over a Self-Driving Vehicle on Its First Day Carrying Passengers

(PROVIDENCE, R.I.) — A self-driving shuttle got pulled over by police on its first day carrying passengers on a new Rhode Island route.

Providence Police Chief Hugh Clements says an officer pulled over the odd-looking autonomous vehicle because he had never seen one before.

The bus-like vehicle operated by Michigan-based May Mobility was dropping off passengers Wednesday morning when a police cruiser arrived with blinking lights and a siren.

With today's launch of self-driving shuttles in Providence for @RIDOT, Rhode Island become's @May_Mobility's third state. This 5 mile route serves commuters and their communities, and is our biggest launch so far! The shuttle is free- come ride with us! #LittleRoadypic.twitter.com/4FTS3YG9Yb

It was just hours after the public launch of a state-funded pilot shuttle service. The shuttle offers free rides on a 12-stop urban loop. Each vehicle holds six people, including an attendant who takes control when the self-driving technology falls short.

Clements says the curious police officer had a cordial conversation with the attendant and didn’t issue any tickets or warnings.